Our overall approach is to continue in these footsteps, providing recommendations, support and guidance for people with cerebral palsy and their families- both to promote mobility as well as overall participation and opportunity to be successful at home, in school, and work and in the community at large.
We work and collaborate with a number of other medical and rehabilitative professionals at Kennedy Krieger and Johns Hopkins. Our care extends over the lifespan, from infants and children through adulthood.
Children, adolescents and adults with a range of developmental disorders including cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, communication disorders and autism are evaluated and followed longitudinally in the Neurodevelopmental Medicine Program (NMP) by neurodevelopmental pediatricians, pediatric nurse practitioners and physiatrists. As part of the initial evaluation, special attention is given to diagnosis, with referrals to a wide range of medical specialists at Kennedy Krieger Institute and Johns Hopkins, including genetics, ophthalmology and neuroimaging. Additionally, appropriate referrals are made to rehabilitative specialists at Kennedy Krieger Institute in pediatric orthopedics, pediatric gastroenterology (GI), physical therapy, occupational therapy, communications sciences and disorders (speech language pathology, audiology and assistive technology), nutrition and social work. Mental health services are utilized if required. Consultations are also made to Johns Hopkins specialty clinics, including neurosurgery, pulmonary, urology and hematology as required. Depending on the identified diagnosis, ongoing care may be provided in the Phelps Center or in other appropriate programs throughout the Kennedy Krieger Institute.
Diversity
We support and embrace culturally relevant, evidence-based, and health equity approaches to inform medical/rehabilitative care, research, advocacy, and policies that promote optimal child brain development, recognizing the importance of a diverse workforce.
Education and Mentoring
We view educational development and mentoring as essential parts of our mission. We strive to connect trainees and mentees with mentors and colleagues to promote their career development into leaders in the future in the field of neurodevelopmental disabilities. We recognize the value of utilizing similar cultural backgrounds as appropriate in fostering development.